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World Interfaith Harmony Week Begins

Mark Koenig

World Interfaith Harmony Week begins tomorrow - February 1.

The United Nations General Assembly designated the first week in February as World Interfaith Harmony Week. H.M. King Abdullah II of Jordan proposed the creation of the week. The week provides an opportunity for people of different faiths to seek fellowship, work together, and celebrate common concerns and values.

Different communities will observe World Interfaith Harmony Week in ways that are appropriate to their situation and relationships.

Ideas to observe the week could include (but not be limited to) praying with people of all faiths for peace in the Middle East and around the world, dialogues, work to "green sacred spaces," shared breakfasts or other meals, or joint community projects. Explore the Interfaith Toolkit of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) for additional ideas and resources.

Learn about events that are already planned for World Interfaith Harmony Week. Plan and register your event.

World Interfaith Harmony Week is an opportunity to practice "respectful presence." As the 209th General Assembly (1997) states, " Respectful presence is a way to follow Jesus of Nazareth, who met with people of many cultures and religions even as he fulfilled the nature and purpose of his God-given mission. Our expectation is that the practice of respectful presence can enable Christians to have fruitful experiences of interfaith dialogue, celebration, or worship. At the same time, our expectation is that respectful presence with people of other faiths can lead Christians into a fuller understanding and experience of their own faith."

• Posted at 7:20 a.m.
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Categories: Diversity, Interfaith dialogue and relationships, Peace, U.N. General Assembly

Tags: h.m. king abdullah ii, interfaith, jordan, presbyterian church (u.s.a.), respectful presence, respectful presence: an understanding of interfait, united nations, world interfaith harmony week